What experienced mums wish they'd known about tummy time

Ask a group of mums about tummy time and somebody will laugh. "Mine screamed every single time." Someone else will admit they gave up for weeks. Tummy time is one of those things everyone tells you to do and few people explain. Here is what experienced mums often say they wish they had known sooner.

1. It matters more than it looks

Because babies always sleep on their backs (which is exactly right for safe sleep), they need time on their tummies while awake. Tummy time strengthens the neck, shoulders, back and arms. It prepares your baby for rolling, sitting and crawling, and it helps prevent flat spots on the back of the head from lying in one position.

2. You can start in the early weeks

You do not need to wait for a certain age. In the first weeks, just a minute or two at a time, a few times a day, is a good start. Build up gradually as your baby gets stronger. The World Health Organization suggests that babies who are not yet crawling build up to at least 30 minutes of tummy time a day, spread out in short sessions while they are awake.

3. Your chest counts

Tummy time does not have to happen on the floor. Some of the best sessions happen with your baby lying on your chest while you recline on the sofa or bed, lifting their head to see your face. Other ways to try:

• Lap time: lay your baby across your knees, tummy down, and gently rub their back.
• Floor time: on a clean blanket or play mat on the floor, with you lying face to face.
• A small roll: a rolled-up towel under the chest and armpits can make it easier for a young baby to lift their head.
• Tummy-down carry: hold your baby face down along your forearm, supporting their head and body, and walk around the room.

4. Timing is everything

Straight after a big feed is not ideal, as pressure on a full tummy can bring milk back up. Try after a nappy change, after a nap, or when your baby is awake and content. Two or three minutes when they are happy is worth more than ten minutes of tears.

5. Hating it is normal

Lifting a heavy head is hard work. If your baby protests:

• Get down to their level so your face is the first thing they see.
• Talk, sing, pull funny faces and blow raspberries.
• Place a baby-safe mirror or a brightly coloured toy just in front of them.
• Keep sessions very short and stop before tears become a meltdown.
• Try again later. Little and often wins.

Most babies grow to enjoy it as they get stronger, especially once they can push up on their arms and look around.

6. Safety rules are simple and non-negotiable

• Tummy time is only for when your baby is awake and you are watching.
• If your baby falls asleep on their tummy, gently roll them onto their back and move them to their cot or Moses basket.
• Use a firm, flat surface on the floor, not a bed, sofa or high surface they could roll off.
• Keep pets, older children and small objects out of reach.
• Never let your baby sleep on your chest when you might fall asleep yourself.

7. Some things are worth mentioning to your health visitor

Talk to your health visitor or doctor if your baby always turns their head the same way, you notice a flat spot developing, your baby seems very floppy or very stiff, or you are worried about how they hold their head. These are common questions and there is often simple help available.

Fearfully and wonderfully made

Watch your baby lift their head for the first time, wobbling and determined, and you will understand why the psalmist wrote, "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works" (Psalm 139:14). Every tiny muscle growing stronger on that play mat is part of God's careful design. Tummy time is not just a box to tick. It is a front-row seat to a marvel.

A prayer on the play mat

Creator God, thank you for my baby's growing body: their neck, their arms, their determined little face. Give me patience on the hard days and joy in the small victories. Help me to see your marvellous work right here on the floor beside me. Amen.